WIREDGOV

Yarmouth Coastguard has coordinated the evacuation of a 57 year old male passenger from the Ventura, a large cruise liner from the middle of the North Sea after he was taken seriously ill.

Both the RAF Rescue Helicopter (R128) from Leconfield and the Cromer Lifeboat were requested to meet the ‘Ventura’ as it was not certain if a helicopter evacuation was possible as the ship is not equipped with a strengthened helicopter landing pad.

The Captain of the Ventura then moved all his passengers’ way from the top two decks away to clear the helicopter winch operation.

Yarmouth Coastguard in consultation with the ships medical staff and the staff at Norfolk and Norwich Hospital ascertained the seriousness of the man’s condition and sent the patient direct to Norfolk and Norwich Hospital for treatment via the helicopter, along with a nurse who monitored his condition throughout the journey.

The Ventura is a P & O Cruise liner with up to 4800 people on board and was bound for Southampton when the situation arose.

The weather is very pleasant this afternoon with 10 knots easterly winds and good visibility.

Notes to Editors

The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities. Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org .

Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media